Perturbation of an organism's homeostasis by stress can trigger biological or behavioral adaptation and accelerate onset and course of several diseases. Signaling triggered by norepinephrine or epinephrine (via adrenergic receptors) and cortisol (through glucocorticoid receptors) has profound effects on dampening immune responses, accelerating cancer progression and increasing the risk of cardiovascular, metabolic, and colonic diseases. To view this SnapShot, open or download the PDF.